“To have a global superstar like Ken Block contesting the Otago Rally is a real coup for us,” Otago Rally clerk of course Norman Oakley said.

“When Ken last competed here in 2007 he wasn’t anywhere near as popular as he is now, and I’m sure his presence in the event will help to boost spectator numbers out on the stages.

“It’s a real thrill to have him enter the Otago Rally, and I’m sure there’ll be many, many fans at the event who will jump at the chance to meet someone that they have only ever seen on their computer screens in the Gymkhana series.”

Block has also contested the New Zealand leg of the WRC three times previously, the most recent visit being in 2012, where he finished 9th overall in a Ford Fiesta World Rally Car.